Will we see snow on the ground?

Q: We are visiting this summer from Palm Springs, my children have never seen snow, and I feel it will really complete our ‘Alaskan Experience’.  Will we be able to see snow in Denali National Park?

A: Depending on when you visit in the summer months there may be some small patches of snow up higher in altitudes of the park.  Mt. McKinley is always capped in snow due to her height, but by June or July most of the snow on the ground is melted.  As you travel farther north in Alaska (to Fairbanks or beyond) your chance of finding snow increases in heavily wooded and mountain areas.  It all depends on when you plan on visiting.  May and August/September have a much higher chance of snow than the middle summer months.

Can we take pets to Denali?

Q: Are pets allowed in Denali National Park?

A: Pets are allowed while you are in the town of Denali, but can not be taken into the Park.  They are not allowed at the cabins because they can be destructive to native species.  Alaska is almost entirely Tick and Flea free, and if your pet brings these species into the park it can disrupt the natural balance that has been reigning for millions of years.  However, there are some hotels in the town of Denali that allow pets.

How do I get to Sitka?

Q: What is the easiest way to get to Sitka?

A: Sitka is an island in the ‘panhandle’ of Alaska’s Southeast.  There are two ways to get to Sitka, by boat, and by plane.  Typically residents take a small plane from Anchorage to Juneau, then a boat to Sitka.  There are no roads to either of these places.

What is the closest airport to Denali?

Q: What is the closest major airport to Denali?

A: The closest major airport to Denali is Anchorage.  Denali is almost dead center between Fairbanks and Anchorage, but most flights have to stop in anchorage for re-fueling anyway.  You are more than welcome to take a bush plane to Talkeetna from Anchorage or all the way to Denali!  Bush Planes are a very common sight in Alaska, and can be very comfortable.

Are there any special activities in June?

Q: We are coming to Alaska on June 18th, are there any special attractions that are best to see that time of year?

A: You picked an amazing time to visit Alaska!  Right around that time in June is the summer solstice.  All over the state celebrations ring out over the longest day of the year.  June is also a great time to see the sights in Alaska, with days so long you have more chances to see wildlife and the landscape.  If you are going to be in Anchorage be sure to go to the Saturday Market in Downtown and if you are going to be in Alaska until July 7th, that is when the annual Bear Paw Festival takes place in Eagle River. If you are in Fairbanks, the Tanana Valley Farmers market runs on Saturdays along with a Classic Car Show on June 19th.